Sorry Gaza I thought you were joking, having followed a few of your threads you are a bit of a larf!
Seriously - I have used a ladder mat for years, with a T bar set in it, it is equal to someone footing if not better. It comply's with new safety regs too. But personally I'm a bit of a cautious window cleaner, havent had a slip yet in 18 years, I wouldn't use it on a flower bed. I prefer to sink the ladder in, I reckon that is much safer.
Sorry 'bout the rain. Hope you're not in Birmingham!
Pj